Ham and Cheese Sticks – A Savory Snack Delight

Introduction to Ham and Cheese Sticks

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a delicious snack that everyone in the family will enjoy. That’s where these Ham and Cheese Sticks come to the rescue! With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, they are perfect for those hectic afternoons or unexpected gatherings. Imagine pulling a tray of warm, cheesy goodness from the oven, delighting your loved ones with their savory aroma. These tasty treats not only satisfy cravings but also make you feel like a culinary superstar, all without breaking a sweat!

Why You’ll Love This Ham and Cheese Sticks

You’re going to love these Ham and Cheese Sticks for their unbeatable simplicity and incredible taste. In just 30 minutes, you can create a delightful snack that will impress everyone—from picky eaters to the most discerning taste buds. They’re quick to assemble, making them a lifesaver on busy days. Plus, the combination of savory ham and melted cheese wrapped in flaky dough is simply irresistible!

Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Sticks

Let’s gather up the essentials for these delectable Ham and Cheese Sticks. Trust me, you won’t need to scavenge through your pantry for hours. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Crescent Dough Sheets: These are your flaky jackets of joy. They provide the perfect crunch when baked and are super easy to work with.
• Deli-Sliced Ham: Opt for your favorite type—smoked, honey-baked, or even turkey ham if you’re feeling adventurous. This is the savory star of the show.
• Cheddar Cheese Sticks: Think gooey goodness! Cheddar melts beautifully and adds a comforting richness to the sticks. Use pepper jack for a spicy kick!
• Melted Butter: This adds flavor and helps the dough brown beautifully. Plus, it gives a delicious sheen to each stick.
• Worcestershire Sauce: This is the secret ingredient that adds a deep, savory flavor, taking the sticks to another level. Just a bit works wonders!
• Dijon Mustard: For a hint of tanginess, this ingredient elevates the taste profile. If you prefer milder flavors, yellow mustard is a great substitute.
• Dried Minced Onion or Onion Powder: A sprinkle of these adds subtle onion flavor. If you have fresh onions on hand, feel free to chop a little for a fresh twist!
• Poppy Seeds: While optional, these tiny seeds add a delightful crunch and a nod to traditional recipes. They also make the sticks look fancy!

The exact quantities of these ingredients are listed at the end of the article for your convenience. You can print it out too! So, let’s get those ingredients together and start cooking!

How to Make Ham and Cheese Sticks

Now that we have our ingredients gathered, let’s dive into the fun part: making these delightful Ham and Cheese Sticks. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing snack in no time!

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your sticks cook evenly and come out perfectly golden. While that’s warming up, grease your baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. This little trick makes cleanup a breeze, and it helps prevent any sticking. Trust me, a clean kitchen is a happy kitchen!

Prepare the Crescent Dough

Open those tubes of crescent dough and carefully unroll them. You’ll want to cut each sheet into 4 equal pieces, yielding 8 pieces total. Aim for rectangles; this makes it easier to wrap the ham and cheese. Don’t stress if the dough tears a bit; a little imperfection adds character—like my cooking style!

Assemble the Ham and Cheese Sticks

Time to layer! Take a piece of dough, add a slice of your favorite deli ham side by side, then place a cheddar cheese stick on top. Gently fold the ends of the dough over the filling and roll it up to seal. Now you have little bundles of joy ready for baking! Repeat with the remaining pieces of dough until you have all 8 sticks prepared.

Brush the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced onion, and poppy seeds. This flavorful concoction is a game changer! Brush this savory mixture generously over each stick before they hit the oven. This step adds a beautiful golden sheen and elevates the taste. Your kitchen will smell divine!

Bake the Ham and Cheese Sticks

Place your prepared sticks on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the key is that lovely golden brown color. When they’re out, allow them to cool for a minute. Then, dive in and enjoy your scrumptious Ham and Cheese Sticks while they are warm and melty!

Tips for Success

• Use a pizza cutter to slice the dough cleanly; it makes the job easier!
• For extra flavor, experiment with different cheese types, like mozzarella or pepper jack.
• If you prefer a crunch, add breadcrumbs to the butter mixture for more texture.
• Serve these sticks hot for the best gooey cheese experience.
• They freeze well! Just reheat in the oven for a quick snack later.

Equipment Needed

• Baking Sheet: A simple cookie sheet works wonders.
• Parchment Paper: If you don’t have this, greasing the pan will do just fine.
• Pizza Cutter or Knife: For cutting the dough smoothly.
• Small Bowl: To mix your flavorful butter mixture.
• Basting Brush: For applying that buttery goodness to the sticks.

Variations

• Spinach and Feta: Swap the ham for fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
• Turkey and Swiss: Use turkey slices paired with Swiss cheese for a lighter alternative that still packs a punch.
• Spicy Jalapeño: Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick, perfect for those who love a bit of heat.
• Veggie Delight: Fill the dough with roasted vegetables and mozzarella cheese for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the butter mixture for an aromatic flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Ham and Cheese Sticks with a zesty dipping sauce like mustard or ranch for extra flavor.
• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the sticks.
• An icy lemonade or sparkling water can refresh your palate beautifully.
• For a festive touch, arrange them on a platter with sprigs of parsley.

FAQs about Ham and Cheese Sticks

Can I make Ham and Cheese Sticks ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance, even freeze them. Just bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You’ll have a delicious snack ready in no time!

What dipping sauces pair well with Ham and Cheese Sticks?
These sticks are versatile! I love to serve them with mustard, ranch dressing, or even a sweet chili sauce. Experiment and find your favorite combination!

Can I use different types of cheese?
Certainly! Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, pepper jack, or even gouda can elevate your Ham and Cheese Sticks. Mix and match to find your perfect flavor blend!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven until warmed through. Trust me, they’re just as tasty!

Are these Ham and Cheese Sticks suitable for kids?
Yes! Kids love the cheesy and savory flavor. Plus, they’re easy to hold and fun to eat, making them a great addition to any family snack time!

Final Thoughts

Making Ham and Cheese Sticks is more than just preparing a snack; it’s about bringing smiles and warmth to your table. As you pull those golden, crispy delights from the oven, there’s a unique joy in sharing them with family and friends. This recipe is simple enough for busy days yet impressive enough for gatherings. Every bite offers that perfect blend of savory ham and gooey cheese wrapped in flaky goodness. So, gather your loved ones, savor the moment, and let these sticks become a cherished part of your cooking repertoire!

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